Part 2: Guiding Your Loved One Through the Transition to Senior Living

man walking with child

Part 2: Guiding Your Loved One Through the Transition to Senior Living

Friday, July 11, 2025

Addressing Concerns and Making the Move Easier

Once your loved one starts to warm up to the idea of senior living, new questions and objections may arise—especially as the reality of moving day approaches. This part of the journey is just as important as the initial conversation.

Here’s how you can help make the transition smoother and more positive.

Explore Options Together

Understanding the different types of senior living helps clarify what your loved one truly needs—and what level of independence they can maintain.

Independent Living at Parkwood Heights:

Perfect for seniors who can manage most daily tasks but want to simplify life.

Benefits include:

  • Maintenance-free living
  • Over 100 monthly social activities
  • On-site dining, fitness, and wellness amenities
  • 24/7 emergency response
  • Transportation, housekeeping, and more

Enriched/Assisted Living:

For those who need help with daily tasks like bathing or medication management, without giving up independence.

Financial Planning and Peace of Mind

Talking about finances can be uncomfortable, but planning ahead makes a world of difference.

Options to Explore Include:

  • Long-term care insurance
  • Veterans benefits
  • Reverse mortgages or home equity
  • Accelerated death benefits
  • Life insurance settlements
  • Combination life/long-term care products

Working with a financial advisor can help your family choose the right solution and ease financial worries.

Preparing for the Move

Rightsizing:

This process involves sorting through belongings to decide what to keep, donate, or let go. Involving your loved one in these decisions gives them control and preserves meaningful memories.

Packing:

Ask the community for a floor plan and help your loved one choose familiar furniture, decorations, and keepsakes to bring. Creating a cozy, personalized space helps the new residence feel like home.

Moving Day Tips:

  • Focus on the benefits of the move
  • Mobilize your family to assist
  • Stay positive and supportive
  • Acknowledge emotions, but encourage hope

Helping Your Loved One Settle In

Even after move-in day, your support matters. A thoughtful adjustment period goes a long way.

Here’s how you can help:

  • Schedule regular—but not overwhelming—visits
  • Host a housewarming party with close family and friends
  • Stay in touch with staff to monitor progress
  • Ask about ambassador programs that match your loved one with a friendly resident for a smoother start (Parkwood Heights offers this!)

Encourage participation in social activities and celebrate small wins—like joining a group activity or making a new friend.

A New Chapter Awaits at Parkwood Heights

Every senior deserves to live in a place where they feel safe, supported, and surrounded by community. And every family deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved one is thriving.

Let Parkwood Heights be that place.

Schedule a visit today and see what makes our community so special. Call 585.223.7595 or 315.986.9100, or visit parkwoodheights.com to learn more.

Rosa
Rosa / Family

Here it is just a little over two weeks since we moved Bruce into Parkwood. I just wanted to tell you how pleased we are with Bruce’s transition and acclimation to Parkwood Heights. The entire staff and residents have been so very welcoming, helpful, and supportive.I see a remarkable difference in Bruce’s energy, health, and his avenues of interest….. We owe this to the eager and affirmative attention everyone at Parkwood has given Bruce over these past two weeks…Oh my gosh, I can’t tell you how relieved, rested, and encouraged I feel since Bruce has joined the Parkwood community…

Ken and Bev Keyes
Ken and Bev Keyes / Family

Ken and I just want to let you know how much we appreciated having our Uncle in the Enriched Program at Parkwood Heights. His apartment was bright and inviting and the care he received by all the staff was wonderful. He could be independent, as well as cared for in relation to his needs. No matter what the day brought, the staff would tell us they loved their jobs and would always have a smile and a hug for everyone, helping to make each day a better day for those around them.

Dolores
Dolores / Resident

I moved to Parkwood Heights in 2005 because I wanted to live closer to my daughter. The activities department was the deciding factor. I enjoy having so many activities and events to choose from. Also, when calculating my expenses to live in my home or to live at Parkwood, the decision was made easier because the cost was about the same.

Tom & Donna
Tom & Donna / Family

On January 19th we moved mom from Florida to New York. We were pleased with Parkwood Heights, from staff to the lovely facility. It was a difficult move for mom at the age of 97 as well as us with the arrangements. From day one, all of our questions were answered and we were guided through the move as easily as possible.

Tom and Nancy
Tom and Nancy / Villa Residents

We had been looking around for about 2 years ... we knew that we wanted a spacious villa ... we came to Parkwood because we wanted to do things and they had just what we were looking for. There are so many activities to choose from, places to go and people to visit with. We love it here.

Norma
Norma / Resident

I've been living at Parkwood Heights since November of 2000. I am so happy here ~ the people are so nice and there is so much to do. If I didn't like it here I'd be a fool.

Elenore Bulau
Elenore Bulau / Resident

I have no qualms about saying the management staff is excellent – always friendly and will drop everything to listen to you.

Jeannette M.
Jeannette M. / Resident

There is a great variety of activities and the staff are willing to do anything!

Helen Lund
Helen Lund / Resident

The maintenance guys are so friendly and take care of our requests promptly

J. Bieler
J. Bieler / Resident

The drivers are super caring people who always do a good job

Bev Breen
Bev Breen / Resident

Our servers are wonderful!